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Action Agenda AI & Data

With the Action Agenda AI & Data, the Netherlands fully commits to developing an AI, data and cloud industry based on FairTech principles and federated data and cloud solutions. The rapid developments in the field of AI and data offer enormous opportunities to strengthen the Netherlands' earning capacity. At the same time, non-European players currently hold a dominant position, which raises questions about sovereignty and autonomy. This Action Agenda responds to this with concrete proposals to exploit opportunities for the economy and society, develop European alternatives and strengthen the technological capabilities of the Netherlands. In this way, we are focusing on a future-proof AI, data and cloud sector in which innovation, trust and autonomy are central.

Instead of competing with current non-European providers, the Action Agenda proposes investing in an alternative: focusing on FairTech solutions, federated ecosystems, interoperable cloud solutions and sector-specific foundation models. Only in this way can the Netherlands build a sustainable and distinctive position in the field of technology.

This requires strengthening the underlying infrastructure by investing in talent, data standards, cloud technology and computing power. In addition, by building our own AI, data and cloud industry, in a European context. This technology enables sectors to transform and thus increase their earning capacity.

We are starting this transition with four innovation programmes that contribute to the future-proofing of the AI & data industry. Over time, we will regularly adjust our activities based on new developments. This allows us to remain responsive without losing sight of our goal.

Innovation Programmes

Four Innovation Programmes have been developed within the Action Agenda AI & Data, which together support the development of a future-proof AI, data and cloud industry. These programmes focus on GPT-EU, domain-specific foundation models, Data & Cloud infrastructure and neuromorphic computing. Read more about the specific content of each innovation programme below.

Innovation programme 1 | European FairTech Large Language Model based on GPT-NL

This innovation programme focuses on the development of a European FairTech large language model (LLM), building on GPT-NL. GPT-NL is a generic Dutch language model that complies with the principles of AI FairTech: transparent, ethically verifiable, and developed in line with European standards and values. It therefore forms a strong starting point for responsible AI in Europe. This makes GPT-NL an ideal basis for a European model, referred to as GPT-EU.

The innovation programme around GPT-EU brings together the most important themes from the NTS Action Agenda AI, Data and Cloud. The programme includes technology development in the field of LLMs and AI FairTech, investments in infrastructure such as data infrastructure and an AI factory, and application-oriented research that contributes to strengthening Dutch industrial policy.

GPT-EU has a significant societal impact. The model can be used for personalised healthcare, energy optimisation, cybersecurity and language-based decision-making within public services, among other things. Priority is given to applications in sectors that work with sensitive data.

Various partners are collaborating within this innovation programme. In addition to TNO, media companies are also key stakeholders. Other participating organisations include De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB), the Judiciary and the National Library. Similar partners are being sought in other countries for the development of a European model. Parties that will enable roll-out on a European scale are also being involved.

Innovation Programme 2 | Domain-specific foundation models

This programme focuses on building sector-specific foundation models that go beyond generic language models. These AI systems combine domain knowledge, data and scientific insights to enable complex analyses and predictions. Examples include models for energy networks or cybersecurity that support engineers, researchers and policymakers in making better decisions.

The advantages are clear: faster innovation, scalable and reliable applications, and international appeal for AI talent. The programme connects science, business and policy within the Action Agenda AI & Data, thereby strengthening industrial policy.

Innovation Programme 3 | Data & Cloud

To safeguard our autonomy and sovereignty, the Data & Cloud programme builds a national data and cloud infrastructure. Four lines of action are central to this:

  • Data: developing federated solutions and interoperability for a national data infrastructure

  • Digital Product Passports (DPPs): promoting cross-sector passports and their further development

  • Digital Identity: strengthening privacy and protection of digital identities

  • Cloud: promoting autonomous, interoperable cloud solutions in a federated ecosystem

The programme ties in with existing public-private partnerships, including CoE-DSC, Health-RI, BDI, DMI and NDS, and connects international initiatives such as Gaia-X, IDSA and European IPCEI projects. The Dutch Cloud Community plays an important role as a driving force within this ecosystem.

Innovation Programme 4 | Neuromorphic computing

This programme focuses on the development of neuromorphic computing as a fundamentally new computing paradigm for AI. Neuromorphic chips make AI processes up to a thousand times more energy efficient and perform calculations directly at the sensor. This allows complex data problems to be solved faster and more accurately.

The programme responds to the physical and energetic limitations encountered by conventional CPUs and GPUs. Neuromorphic computing offers an alternative that is crucial for real-time decision-making and local data processing.

Within this programme, the Netherlands is committed to being one of the first to build a complete neuromorphic superstack. This will strengthen our national knowledge base and enable the Netherlands to work towards a strategic market position in industry, infrastructure and AI.

The programme is being implemented by a broad consortium led by Digital Holland. Companies such as Innatera, OPT-NET, Axelera AI, and HourSec are collaborating with research institutions, including SURF, TNO, CogniGron, Radboud University, University of Twente, TU Delft, TU Eindhoven, Imec, and CWI. End users from various sectors are also actively involved.